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India U17 Men's Team Set for Crucial Friendlies vs Turkey in Antalya

The India U17 men's national team is scheduled to play two friendly matches against Turkey in Antalya on February 10 and 12, 2026. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes has selected a 24-player squad for these games, which serve as vital preparation for the upcoming AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. Turkey, a strong European side, is using the matches to prepare for its own UEFA European Under-17 Championship and FIFA U17 World Cup qualifiers. The matches follow India's recent friendlies against Tajikistan and coincide with the successful run of the India U17 women's team in the SAFF U19 Championship.

Key Points: India U17 Men's Team to Play Turkey in Antalya Friendlies

  • Prep for AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026
  • Two matches vs Turkey in Antalya
  • 24-member squad announced
  • Turkey prepping for UEFA U17 Euros
2 min read

India U17 men's team to play two friendly matches against Turkey

India U17 men's football team will play two friendlies against Turkey in Antalya on Feb 10 & 12, 2026, as preparation for the AFC U17 Asian Cup.

"Blue Colts head coach Bibiano Fernandes has named a 24-member travelling squad for the games - AIFF Release"

New Delhi, February 9

The India U17 men's team will play two friendly matches against Turkey in Antalya, on February 10 and 12, 2026. Blue Colts head coach Bibiano Fernandes has named a 24-member travelling squad for the games, according to an AIFF release.

India are preparing for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, the draw for which will be held on February 12. Earlier this month, India played two friendly games against Tajikistan U17 in Margao, winning 4-2 and drawing 0-0.

Turkey are preparing for the UEFA European Under-17 Championship 2026 and FIFA U17 World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Turkiye are two-time former champions of the UEFA European Under-17 Championship and semi-finalists at the FIFA U17 World Cup in 2005.

India U17 men's squad for friendlies in Turkey:

Goalkeepers: Alok Nishad, Manashjyoti Baruah, Rajrup Sarkar.

Defenders: Abhishek Kumar Mondal, Indra Rana Magar, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, Lawmsangzuala, Md Aimaan Bin, Moosa Ashiq Sofi, Shubham Poonia.

Midfielders: Dallalmuon Gangte, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Diamond Singh Thokchom, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, Nitishkumar Meitei Yengkhom.

Forwards: Aazim Parveez Najar, Adil Aman A, Azlaan Shah Kh, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, Heeranganba Seram, Lesvin Rebelo, Rahan Ahmed, Washington Singh Ngangom, Yuvraj Kadam.

Head coach: Bibiano FernandesAssistant coach: Subham RabhaGoalkeeping coach: Parshuram SalwadiStrength and conditioning coach: Karan Mane

India U17 men's friendly match schedule:14:30 IST, February 10: Turkey vs India14:30 IST, February 12: Turkey vs India

Venue: Emirhan Sports Center, Manavgat, Antalya.

Earlier, India U17 women's team showed their mettle in the final of the SAFF U19 Women's Championship, defeating Bangladesh U19s 4-0 in the final of the tournament at the Pokhara Rangasala Stadium, on Saturday, February 7.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see the mix of players from different states - Manipur, Goa, Assam, etc. This is the real strength of Indian football. Hope they gel well as a team.
V
Vikram M
Turkey are former European champions at this level. The scoreline might be tough, but the focus should be entirely on the process and learning. No pressure on results, just play your hearts out.
P
Priya S
Good to see the women's team doing so well too! 4-0 win in the SAFF final is brilliant. Hope the boys draw inspiration from their sisters. The future looks bright for Indian football.
R
Rohit P
Respectfully, I hope the AIFF has a long-term plan for these players beyond just this tournament. We've seen talented U17 batches fade away before. Need a proper pathway to the senior team.
K
Karthik V
The timing is perfect with the AFC draw on the 12th. These matches will give Coach Bibiano a clear idea of where the team stands. Best of luck to the entire squad and staff!

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